Ski Season 2025/26: EU Travel Rules & New Alpine Routes
✈️ New EU Travel Rules (from 12 October 2025)
The EU is introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU travellers, which includes UK citizens. Here’s what that means in practice:
Biometric checks: On your first trip after the launch, you’ll need to complete a quick facial scan and fingerprint registration at the border. Children under 12 only require a photo.
No more passport stamps: Your entry and exit will now be recorded electronically instead of stamped.
Queues: Expect longer wait times at airports, Eurostar, Dover, and Eurotunnel during the early stages. The system will be fully in place by April 2026.
Stay limit stays the same: You can still spend up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area without a visa.
Looking ahead: A separate online pre-travel authorisation (ETIAS) is due to launch in late 2026.
Tip: Allow extra time at borders and keep your return ticket, accommodation details, and travel insurance handy.
🚆 Easier Travel to the Alps
Getting to the mountains is set to become more convenient thanks to new train and flight options for winter 2025/26:
The Eurostar Snow Train is back with expanded services direct from London to the Alps.
The Travelski Night Express will run overnight from Paris to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, stopping at Moûtiers and Aime.
Airlines are introducing new direct routes into Alpine airports, including Newcastle → Chambéry and Manchester → Verona.
These changes mean less time travelling and more time skiing — ideal for quick getaways and long weekends.
